Mr. Speaker, September 30 is International Translation Day, a day set aside to recognize the valuable contributions interpreter/communicators make to our society. This day is also recognized at the national level, and is observed in the Northwest Territories by the Interpreter/Translator Society of the N.W.T.
The work of interpreter/communicators has special significance for us here in the Northwest Territories. Our northern society is made up of a number of very distinct cultural groups. Clear communication is essential if we are to understand each other's views of the world, as well as our goals and aspirations.
We are fortunate to have a strong group of well-trained, professional interpreter/communicators who help us communicate effectively. At this point, I would like to express my appreciation for the important role all of the N.W.T.'s interpreters/communicators play in helping us understand each other better. I would particularly like to thank the staff of the Language Bureau for their dedication. Whether these people work in headquarters or the regions, they put in long hours all year round, especially while this Legislative Assembly is in session. Without their assistance, our government would have a very difficult time in working to meet the goals of northerners.
To give us all a better idea of the skills needed to be an interpreter/communicator, and the role translation plays in the north, the Language Bureau is celebrating National Translation Day with an open house. It will be held tomorrow, September 30, from 10:00 a.m. to noon, on the third floor of the Laing Building.
There will be simultaneous interpreting demonstrations and aboriginal languages displays. I would like to invite you all to join us celebrating National Translation Day. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
---Applause